Endocrine System and Diabetes Review

Flashcards for reviewing key concepts related to the endocrine system, diabetes, and related conditions.

What is Diabetes Insipidus (DI)?

A condition characterized by excessive thirst (polydipsia) and massive excretion of large amounts of dilute urine due to low levels of antidiuretic hormone (ADH).

What causes Diabetes Insipidus?

Hyposecretion of ADH caused by stroke, trauma, surgery, or idiopathic reasons.

What are common symptoms of Diabetes Insipidus?

Symptoms include polydipsia, dehydration, fatigue, muscle pain, headaches, tachycardia, and orthostatic hypotension.

What role does ADH play in the body?

ADH promotes water reabsorption in the renal tubules and causes vasoconstriction.

What are the key risk factors for endocrine problems?

Age, poor diet, heredity, trauma, and environmental factors.

What distinguishes the anterior and posterior pituitary glands?

The anterior pituitary produces hormones like ACTH, GH, and TSH, while the posterior pituitary releases ADH and oxytocin.

What is SIADH?

Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone secretion, characterized by high levels of ADH leading to fluid overload.

What is hypothyroidism?

A condition where the thyroid gland is underactive, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, and low energy.

What is hyperthyroidism?

A condition characterized by overproduction of thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms like tachycardia, weight loss, and excessive sweating.

What are the signs of hypocalcemia?

Signs include muscle cramps, spasms (tetany), Chvostek's sign, and Trousseau's sign.

What is the function of the adrenal glands?

The adrenal glands produce hormones such as cortisol, which regulates metabolism, immune response, and blood pressure.

What are symptoms of Cushing's disease?

Symptoms include moon face, weight gain, thinning skin, and easy bruising due to excess cortisol.

What is Addison's disease?

A condition caused by low levels of cortisol, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, and low blood pressure.

How is diabetes managed?

Management includes lifestyle changes, monitoring blood glucose levels, and medications such as insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents.

What are the 3 ‘P’s of diabetes?

Polydipsia, polyuria, and polyphagia.

What is the A1C test?

A blood test that measures average blood glucose levels over the past 2 to 3 months, with values of 6.5% or higher indicating diabetes.

What is a common treatment for hypothyroidism?

Levothyroxine, a synthetic form of thyroid hormone.

What food sources are high in iodine?

Iodine is found mainly in animal protein, seaweed, dairy, eggs, and certain meats.

What is the primary treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs)?

Antibiotics are used to treat UTIs, and supportive care includes hydration and pain management.

What causes kidney stones?

Dehydration, dietary factors, and certain medical conditions can lead to the formation of kidney stones.

What is the significance of urine specific gravity in diabetes?

Low urine specific gravity indicates dilute urine, common in conditions like Diabetes Insipidus.

What is gestational diabetes?

Diabetes that occurs during pregnancy, characterized by insulin resistance and often resolves after childbirth.

What are the complications associated with chronic kidney disease?

Complications include hypertension, anemia, and electrolyte imbalances.